British Home Secretary John Reid says British police are confident they have ample evidence to prosecute suspects in the alleged terror plot to bomb U.S.-bound airliners.

Speaking Sunday, Reid told ABC television the probe has yielded "substantial material" needed for criminal prosecutions. He did not disclose details, but said terror-related charges would be brought against some of the 23 suspects within the next few days.

Reid declined to confirm a report in The Sunday Times that quotes senior police as saying more than half of the suspects will be charged. The report says evidence includes bomb-making equipment, chemicals, a large sum of cash and "significant documentation."

Most of the suspects can be held until Wednesday, before prosecutors must return to court for further permission to extend the detentions.

Under British law, terror suspects can be held up to 28 days before prosecutors must either charge or release them.

Police are questioning 23 suspects detained on or since August 10. Most of them are British nationals of Pakistani descent. Seven other suspects are in custody in Pakistan.